This research area covers major issues and trends in the evolution and construction of multiculturalism and identities in Singapore, and their impact on social cohesion and nation-building.

The dynamics of multiculturalism and identities pose challenges and concerns inherent in many multicultural societies. In Singapore, these pertain to state policies on language, culture and religion; ethnic relations in various domains; the diversity and competition of ethnic, cultural and national identities; ethnic-based organisations and activities; inter-cultural and inter-religious encounters; the negotiation of commonalities and differences; conflict management; and geopolitical influences. Currently, ethno-religious relations and issues have become even greater concerns, due to global, regional and local developments.

STAFF

Azhar Ghani

KEY PROJECTS/PUBLICATIONS

Beyond Rituals and Riots: Multiculturalism and Social Cohesion in a Time of Uncertainty (working title)
Lai Ah Eng, ed, (2003, forthcoming)

The Importance of Cross-Cultural Exchange in the Remaking of Singapore
Lai Ah Eng, in Remaking Singapore : Recommendations from the Institute of Policy Studies.
Web publication:  http://www.spp.nus.edu.sg/ips_stag/pub/rsc/IPS_LAI.pdf , 2002

Report on IPS Research Forum on Ethnic Relations in Singapore

Web publication: http://www.ips.org.sg, IPS, Nov 2002

The IPS Ethnic Relations in Singapore Project, 2002

Closed-Door discussions on Ethnic Relations and Social Cohesion, 2001

Survey of Ethnicity, National Identity and Sense of Rootedness among Singaporeans, 2001

Survey of National Orientations, 1998 and 1993

Submission on Cross-Cultural Communication Agenda
to the Ministry of Information and the Arts (MITA), 1995

“Living in Singapore as a Mixed-Marriage Family”

Focus Group Discussions, 1993 The Management of Ethnic Relations in Public Housing Estates
Ooi Giok Ling, Sharon Siddique & Soh Kay Cheng. Singapore: Times Academic Press for IPS, 1993

“The Management of Ethnic Relations in Public Housing Estates”
Closed-Door Discussions, 1991 and 1993

“The Promotion of Chinese Language and Culture in a Multiracial Singapore”,
Closed-Door Discussions, 1990 and 1991

“The Malays in Singapore”
Closed-Door Discussion, 1991

Survey of Ethnic Identity, National Identity and Citizenship, 1990

“Multiracialism in Singapore”
Closed-Door Discussion, 1989 “

Defining the Place of Religion in a Multiethnic Body Politic”
Closed-Door Discussion, 1988

• Inter-Cultural Dialogue Series, 2003 - 4

• Research Series on Race and Multiculturalism in Singapore, 2004

• Religious Trends and Inter-religious Harmony in Singapore, 2004 - 5

• Cultural Awareness and Diversity at the Workplace: Policies and Practices, 2004 - 5